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Few dinners strike a balance between simplicity, flavor, and elegance quite like a hearty salmon pasta. It’s rich and creamy yet bright with citrus, making it the perfect meal to whip up when you’re craving something both satisfying and fresh. Let’s dive into this delicious idea and transform humble ingredients into a meal that feels like a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or a handful of fresh dill, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Begin by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted, boiling water according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon chunks and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, just until they’re golden on the outside but still tender inside. Transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, stirring gently for a minute or until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, reducing slightly and thickening just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fish to help it soak up all those tangy, herby flavors.
Once your pasta is al dente, drain it and immediately toss it into the skillet with the salmon and sauce. Gently mix everything together so each strand of pasta gets smothered in the creamy goodness. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you’d like an extra layer of richness.
This recipe embodies comfort while offering a dose of heart-healthy protein, making it a great choice for families, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a quick but impressive meal. To keep things lighter, try swapping heavy cream for half-and-half, or add spinach leaves for a boost of greens. You can also experiment with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat or use plenty of fresh herbs if you have them on hand. However you tailor it, this salmon pasta delivers a comforting meal that feels restaurant-worthy in the best way.
